In October this year, Rolf Zimmermann retired after 40 years with Printec-DS. His successor as Head of R&D, Sascha Gilly, answered a few questions about how it feels to take over from someone who has played a key role in making the company what it is today.
You replaced Rolf Zimmermann as the Head of R&D by Printec-DS after his retirement. How does it feel to take over the leading role in a well-established department with a long-standing leader?
Stepping into such an important role felt overwhelming at first - following in the footsteps of a long-time leader is no small task. At the same time, it's an incredible opportunity. The trust placed in me to lead the department and the opportunity to grow professionally is truly exciting and inspiring.
I am fortunate to have had the chance to work with Rolf and learn from his approach. My ambition is to maintain the highest standards of work and the unique creative atmosphere in the team that he has created.
Are there any immediate changes or initiatives you’re planning to implement to align the R&D team with your vision?
Of course, I have ideas about what I’d like to implement. However, I firmly believe in involving the management and sales teams in these discussions. It’s essential to collaborate and ensure that our developments meet market and customer needs. Input from all sides is critical to achieving impactful results.
What are the key trends in R&D you believe are most important for the company to focus on in the next years?
The key trends in R&D that I believe the company should focus on in the coming years include developing complex HMI solutions and advancing touch and display technologies. Additionally, we should prioritize niche products, including innovations like touch tables and the transparent touchscreens. Equally important is the continuous improvement and optimization of our existing products, as well as strategically expanding our product portfolio to align with evolving market demands. These areas are crucial for staying competitive and meeting customer expectations effectively.
How do you envision the evolution of the company’s product pipeline under your leadership? What new areas or technologies are you particularly excited about exploring?
Adaptability is key. Staying aligned with technological advancements and market trends will drive our growth. Many innovations are inspired by customer projects, but we also aim to independently explore technologies that enhance our portfolio and propel the company forward.
How do you plan to foster innovation and creativity within the team while maintaining the discipline and processes needed for successful R&D?
Our team is a mix of experienced and younger developers, which provides a great balance of knowledge and fresh perspectives. Everyone is encouraged to contribute ideas. By combining this diversity of thought with structured development processes, we aim to achieve the best possible outcomes.
What personal values or leadership principles do you hold that will influence your approach to leading R&D?
For me, it’s essential that the team operates on an equal footing. Open and honest communication is a cornerstone of my leadership style. Challenges and mistakes are addressed collaboratively, while successes are celebrated as a team. This approach fosters trust and collective growth.